Encounters 2025 Documentary Festival in South Africa Announces Dates and Call for Submissions
The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, widely regarded as Africa’s leading platform for documentary excellence, has officially announced its 2025 dates and a call for submissions. The festival’s 27th edition is scheduled to take place from 19–29 June 2025 across Cape Town, Johannesburg, and various satellite locations.
Since its founding in 1999, Encounters has built a reputation for showcasing the most compelling global documentaries. The festival not only highlights the creative achievements of established filmmakers but also amplifies emerging voices from South Africa and across the African continent.
This year’s submission guidelines invite filmmakers to present feature-length, mid-length, and short documentaries completed after January 2023. Works addressing themes such as social justice, arts and culture, politics, technology, personal narratives, and environmental issues are particularly encouraged. Films in progress or rough cuts are also welcome, provided they are finalized and submitted at least two weeks before the festival’s commencement.
Awards and Recognition
Encounters offers a range of prestigious awards designed to honor creativity and innovation in documentary filmmaking. Highlights include:
- The Adiaha Award, presented in collaboration with the Ladima Foundation, celebrating the best documentary by an African woman.
- The Al Jazeera Best African and International Documentary Award, spotlighting powerful storytelling across borders.
- The Refinery Best Edited Film, recognizing outstanding technical artistry.
Filmmakers also benefit from the festival’s Outreach Programme, which brings screenings to diverse communities, including local townships, fostering deeper connections between creators and audiences.
Submission Details
The festival waives submission fees for South African and African filmmakers, while international entries are subject to a $25 USD fee. All entries must be submitted by 24 February 2025, 11:59 PM SAST.